Wagons are Subaru's bread-and-butter, so a wagon-like tourer concept isn't a radical departure. Even the AWD-ready dual electric-motor setup makes sense. What does stand out from the Tokyo-bound Hybrid Tourer Concept is the modern, attractive design.

Subaru has traditionally offered quirky, sporty fun in an affordable package (with varying mixes of the three). The Tourer Concept shows off design language that's downright Italian, kicking the quirk to the curb in favor of design you don't have to get used to.

As for the hybrid system, the vehicle is still primarily powered a 2.0-liter direct-injection horizontally-opposed turbo gasser putting down power through Subie's Symmetrical AWD system. The "hybrid' part comes from a 27 HP motor connected to the rear axle for acceleration and power boosts and a 13 HP up front used to generate power for the lithium battery pack and provide additional oomph for hill-climbing.

Also, because it's a concept, it has giant doors, only four seats, and a system called EyeSight+ that watches everything around the car and advises you when you're about to run in to someone or something. [Subaru]